Best stainless steel cookware for the money –
Updated on December 14, 2021
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After reading around to see what sets other reviewers like, I decided it was time to throw my 2 cents in and share what 3 inexpensive stainless steel cookware sets I think are the best value for those on a budget.
They are all EXCELLENT stainless steel cookware sets that are a great value for the money.
First, let’s start with what Consumer Reports has to say about stainless steel cookware sets…
To be totally honest, I don’t really agree with Consumer Reports…
Consumer Reports Picks this Stainless Steel Cookware Set as “Best”
Sure, it’s a good cookware set, just not my personal favorite. Price is decent IF you can find it in stock anywhere.
Personally, I don’t really like that brand for stainless steel cookware at all, but I really, REALLY like this red non-stick cookware set from the same brand. It’s really an attractive-looking cookware set that is made so well – and you sure can’t beat the price!
But – we’re talking stainless steel cookware sets right now, so let’s get back on topic.
Best Sets Under $200
Before I start my Top 3 list, I want to let you know my “criteria” for picking stainless steel cookware.
First off, it MUST be dishwasher safe AND oven safe. I want the cookware set to be super high-quality and built to last. I am also VERY picky about handles and lids, too.
So…here we go.
#1 Cuisinart MCP-7N
This is really great cookware set – super high-quality.
![Amazon Image](https://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31%2B3uUXiYvL.jpg)
in the picture: Cuisinart MCP-7N MultiClad Pro Stainless-Steel Cookware 7-Piece Cookware Set
Review
This stainless steel 7-piece cookware set from Cuisinart is absolutely our favorite. And exceptional value for the money!
Perfect for small family cooking and also makes a very appreciated gift for the new bride (or for Christmas, birthday’s etc).
We pick this as our all-around favorite set…and the reviews on Amazon absolutely agree with us – not a single negative thing is said about this set other than pertaining to the size of the pots and pans (these are smaller sized – if you want larger-sized stainless steel cookware of the same exceptional quality, get this set).
Pros
Best Value for the Money
- Dishwasher Safe *
- Oven Safe
- Broiler Safe
- Drip Free Pouring
- Very Strong Handles That Stay Cool
- Stockpot Lid Fits on Skillet
- Heats Evenly
- Very Easy to Clean
- Food Does NOT Stick To Pans
- Perfect For Small Family/Couple Cooking
- Induction Safe
- Perfect Oven to Table
- Professional Look & Performance
Cons
- Doesn’t Come With Steamer Insert
- Might Need To Cook at Lower Temps
- Might Be Too Solid & Heavy for Some
- Not Big Enough for Large Family Cooking
Worth the Money?
If you can grab this stainless steel cookware set for less than $200, you got one heck of a deal (check current price here)
I’d be willing to pay no more than $300 or so – higher than that and we have more options available.
#2 Circulon Genesis Non-Stick Stainless Steel
LOVE this set…and if you’re a fan of having a little non-stick coating in your stainless steel cookware, you will LOVE this set as well.
![Amazon Image](https://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41o40i7E6OL.jpg)
in the picture: Circulon Genesis Stainless Steel Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set
Review
To be honest, this is not OUR favorite stainless steel cookware set, but this 10-piece non-stick set is a BIG favorite for many, many people.
Cooking with pure stainless steel pots and pans in a bit of an art…and it’s something that not everyone enjoys. Many people prefer a “hybrid” type of cookware that combines stainless steel with safe non-stick coating.
If that describes YOU, then we have no doubt that you will love this cookware set!
Pros
- Dishwasher Safe
- Oven Safe
- Heats Evenly
- Works on All Stovetops
- VERY Easy to Clean
- Perfect For Small Family Cooking
- Food Release System
- Stainless Steel Handles
- Glass Lids
- Safe Non-Stick Coating
- No Oil Needed
- Beautiful Appearance
- Metal Utensils OK
- Good Sizes for Everyday Cooking
- Good Overall Value
- “Hybrid” Between True Stainless Steel Cooking and Non-Stick Cookware
Cons
- Too Small for Large Family Cooking
- Lids Tend To Get Hot
- Some May Not Like Grooves on Bottom of Pans
- Hard to Find In Stock
![great stainless steel cookware set if you're on a budget!](https://cdn-0.involvery.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/step00011-620x3401.jpg)
Worth the Money?
#3 Cuisinart 77-14 Chef’s Classic Set
This is a BIG and beautiful stainless steel set – you WILL love it. And if you’re looking to give a cookware set as a gift, this set will be VERY appreciated.
![Amazon Image](https://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51iY%2BDpFXIL.jpg)
in the picture: Cuisinart 77-14 Chef’s Classic Stainless 14-Piece Cookware Set
Review
What an AMAZING stainless steel cookware set! If you can find this cookware set for under $200, like we found here on Amazon today, you should GRAB it.
This is usually a $400+ set of stainless steel pots and pans!
This set is one of those rare opportunities in life when you get WAY more than you paid for.
Pros
- HUGE Set at a Great Price!
- Fast, Even Heating
- “Cool Grip” Handles
- Stainless Steel Lids
- Drip-Free Pouring
- Oven Safe
- Broiler Safe
- Freezer Safe
- Dishwasher Safe
- Steamer Insert
- Pasta Insert
- Suitable for All Family Sizes
- Beautiful Finish
- Lighter than Standard Stainless Steel Cookware
Cons
- Finish might be hard to maintain
- Lids tend to get hot
- Some may not like the lighter weight of the pots and pans
Worth the Money?
YES! If you check the price here and see this set for $200 or so, you are getting a great deal on an amazon set of stainless steel cookware. Suggested retail price is over $500!
More Top-Rated Sets
We’re very picky about the sets we consider “best”.
See All of our Picks for Best Stainless Steel Cookware Here